The Bright Minds initiative returns for 2014

TCT Show + Personalize, the UK’s 3D technologies showcase, is delighted to announce that Inspired Minds (formerly Bright Minds) will return for 2015 on the back of a very successful 2014 edition.

TCT remains committed to inspiring the next generation, giving over 300 schoolchildren the opportunity to get real hands-on experience at this years two day 3D printing spectacular event.

The 2014 edition saw many students take part in interactive courses designed to complement their existing STEM curriculum right at the heart of the event floor. With the generous donation of equipment from 3D Systems Corporation and the expert tuition of Black Country Atelier (BCA) the students had opportunity to learn about 3D printing in a hands-on fashion before heading out to the expansive exhibition to look more closely at a selection of over 200 exhibitors and their wares. After a successful student programme in 2013, the classroom was expanded in 2014 and the range of technologies covered increased to include 3D scanning, a haptic based 3D mouse and the new Cube and CubePro printers from 3D Systems.

This year’s programme, developed by BCA, will encourage pupils to apply real world design and manufacture thinking into their work using a range of technologies that reflect the importance of an integrated set of tools in the classroom and an ecosystem that includes not only technology, but teacher training and the new curriculum.

Duncan Wood, Chief Operating Officer at Rapid News Communications Group commented: “The Inspired Minds initiative is central to the TCT mission of helping our community assess and adopt 3D technologies. Educating the next generations is important not only for the students but for the future health of the industry as a whole. 3D technologies are becoming more widespread we must ensure that those entering the workforce are sufficiently well trained — and our valued partners 3D Systems and Black Country Atelier share in that philosophy.”

Jing Lu, CEO of Black Country Atelier, a leading provider of Additive Manufacture (AM) and Smart Product Design curricula, added: "We are delighted to be invited back to inspire Bright Minds 2015. This year, we are extending our bookable school area with a separate "drop-in" zone, enabling educators to experience our accredited AM courses. As AM grows in industrial applicability, education must equip future designers and engineers with skills in these technologies. Through our training, BCA enables the 21st Century manufacturing team to deliver products of the future"

Rajeev Kulkarni, Vice President and Chief Product Officer, 3DS commented: "From engineering to fashion to medicine, 3D printing technologies are the foundation for many of the careers of tomorrow," said. “We are proud that our educational ecosystem and partnership with TCT Inspired Minds and BCA is helping foster a digital literacy that helps students think, create and communicate in 3D in the UK and beyond."

The programme is designed for students in Secondary School education in the UK. Each session will last approximately two hours and will also give participants entry to TCT Show + Personalize. Industry led tours of the TCT Show + Personalize can also be arranged.

Schools within the UK wishing to participate should contact Jing Lu at BCA to register their interest and discuss how they can get involved. The places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Email: jinglu@blackcountryatelier.com

TCT Inspired Minds will take place within TCT Show + Personalize 2015, September 30th - October 1st 2015, NEC, Birmingham, UK. REGISTER FOR FREE HERE.

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